I'm 31, I've stopped wearing foundation, and 16-year-old me is asking 'why?!'. As someone who spent considerable portions of her school days layering up heavy duty stage make-up (seriously) I'm rather proud of my progress. For years, a full-coverage base was my crutch. Yet, with age comes wisdom. I can only speak for myself, but as it turns out, my mother was right. Less really is more - especially where my foundation is concerned. And one product came across my desk this week that might just have convinced me to ditch foundation altogether. My tinted moisturiser era is here, people!
And tinted moisturisers have come a long way since the grease-laden, slippery formulas that I'd flirted with in the past. Nowadays, find a good one and you'll glow. It's surrendering to this light-weight, natural-look coverage that has transformed my complexion and props to my newfound favourite, the Clarins Skin Illusion Tinted Moisturiser, £40. The brand is a mainstay for me, the hand creams, fresh fragrances and luxe serums will always hold a special place in my heart, but I hadn't counted on them to hold such sway over my make-up routine until now.
What does the Clarins Skin Illusion Tinted Moisturiser from Clarins do?
Billed as 'no make-up make-up' the Clarins Skin Illusion Tinted Moisturiser has been designed to deliver radiance and lots of it. It's made with brand's pioneering skin fit technology, which, though slightly mind-boggling when you get down to the nitty gritty tech details, is pretty fancy stuff. Organic oat sugar forms a 'three-dimensional plant-based film' that moves with skin and maximises longevity. Combined with actives that sound good enough to eat (organic kiwi extract to nourish and hyaluronic acid to plump) it's a perfectly placed to hydrate and brighten. So far so good. But how does it actually fare when a beauty editor puts it to the test?
How to apply the Clarins Skin Illusion Tinted Moisturiser
Application is all about personal preference. The Clarins Skin Tint Illusions Tinted Moisturiser can be applied and blended in a similar way to your favourite moisturiser - using the warmth of your finger tips. This tends to create a more subtle, sheer wash of colour. I like to apply using a densely packed fluffy brush - I find I can build pigment more easily across areas that I may need a touch more coverage.
Shop: Clarins Skin Illusion Tinted Moisturiser
www.johnlewis.com
Clarins Skin Illusion Tinted Moisturiser is the perfect blend of make-up and skincare. Not only does provide natural, dewy coverage, but the skin loving ingredients ensure a bolstered complexion in the long run, too.
Pros
- Lightweight texture
- Long lasting
- Includes skin loving ingredients
Cons
- Only 11 shades available thus far
- Expensive
Our verdict
'I'm already a huge fan of Clarins - the iconic Double Serum has been a beauty cabinet staple for several years now. The make-up is just as beloved among beauty editors and for good reason. That said, I was apprehensive about trying this. Incorporating any new base products into my routine is a big deal. I have sensitive, reactive skin so while I do love a skin tint these days, I still proceed with caution. I have trust issues where tinted moisturisers are concerned - many have felt too oily some even proved a breakout hazard. This one isn't, to be clear. Clarins' new tinted moisturiser evens out my skin tone and boosts my glow. Just a small amount (around pea-sized) smoothed across my whole face makes me look pretty radiant, the perfect level of dewy coverage. There's enough pigment to minimise discolouration and temper redness while still being sheer enough to deliver that gorgeous, second skin feel. It's probably helpful to note that it won't cover blemishes entirely, so I do keep a concealer to hand for any areas where I need a little extra something. I' also always set with a light dusting of pressed powder to give my final look staying power.'
'I have fine lines around the sides of my eyes and across my forehead, yet found my skin looked plumper and more lifted after application - there was none of the unflattering creasing or caking that I'd associate with a typical, full-coverage foundation. It's also joyful to apply - the texture is lightweight and silky, very soft to the touch - there's no tight, sticky feeling. For a dewy finish with plenty of skincare benefits you'd be hard pressed to find something better. Without make-up, I believe my skin looks a little more hydrated too - there's the hyaluronic acid and kiwi extract to thank for that. In short? Would recommend.'
Rachael Martin is Grazia’s Beauty Editor. Originally from Northern Ireland, she studied English Literature at Queen’s University Belfast, before moving to London to pursue a career in magazine journalism.
